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“This is far preferable to a contest at the beginning of a parliament when new MPs will not be similarly informed and may find themselves vulnerable to undue institutional influence.”

"This has been, let me put it explicitly, the greatest honour of my professional life." - John Bercow receives a standing ovation on both sides of the House, as he announces he will stand down as Commons Speaker.

He told the Commons: “In your role as Speaker you have totally changed the way in which the job has been done. You’ve reached out to people across the whole country.”

Mr Corbyn added: “This Parliament is stronger for your being Speaker. Our democracy is the stronger for your being the Speaker. And whatever you do when you finally step down from Parliament, you do so with the thanks of a very large number of people.”

Mr Corbyn offered his thanks on behalf of the Labour Party, noting: “Enjoy the last short period in your office but it’s going to be one of the most dramatic there has been.

“I think your choice of timing and dates is incomparable and will be recorded in the history books of parliamentary democracy.”

Liberal Democrat leader Jo Swinson said casting her vote to elect Mr Bercow as Speaker was the most important vote she has taken whilst being an MP.

Ms Swinson said: “In choosing you to be Speaker, it is the most important decision I have taken in this House for our country and our parliamentary democracy.”

She also thanked Mr Bercow for introducing reforms allowing for Parliament to be more accessible for parents.

She added: “You’ve been a truly modernising Speaker but there is more to do and I hope whoever takes over recognises this.”

For the Government, Michael Gove said it was clear Mr Bercow loved the House of Commons and democracy, adding: “Your commitment to your principles and to your constituents is unwavering and an example to others.”

Mr Gove joked that he hoped Mr Bercow would not take it personally when he votes for an early general election, adding: “It is the case that however controversial the role of the backstop may be in other areas, your role as the backbenchers’ backstop has certainly been one that’s been appreciated by individuals across this House.”